Only a few years ago, the business world used the terms leadership and management interchangeably. Today, however, we have recognized a significant difference between the two. Management is focused on developing and maintaining systems and processes, while leadership is designed to motivate and mobilize people. When managing people, we often turn to policies and rules to direct or correct them. There can be a tendency to treat everyone equally instead of using good judgment. Leaders who lead people use personal connections within the team to guide everyone toward success. They listen and offer feedback. Effective leaders understand that standards and expectations bring more out of people than rules and regulations. Lest I be misunderstood, I am not saying one is [...]

We are very familiar with the importance of EQ (emotional intelligence). There is an ongoing discussion of which is more important: IQ or EQ. Frankly, I don’t feel qualified to enter the debate. However, I have learned that forming and developing people skills (a component of EQ ) is critical in growing a business. Emotionally Intelligent leaders have a people-first mindset and can satisfy their own needs and wants while serving the needs and wants of those they lead. Our ability to develop connections and lasting relationships separates us as leaders. In my coaching practice, I encounter leaders who are too busy with strategy, marketing, product development, systems, etc., resulting in insufficient time for people development. However, when asked what [...]